PARAMARIBO – The chairman of the union that represents the officers of the Police Force Suriname (KPS), Revelino Eijk, recently pointed that the exact reason for the dismissal of Police...
Commissioner Bryan Isaacs is still unclear but he also explained that “in Suriname it is not uncommon for the head of the KPS to be replaced when a new administration comes into office.” Eijk told Times of Suriname that the position of police commissioner is a political one. “The important thing is for the person who is appointed to do the work in accordance with the instructions and based on the law,” said the union chairman. Chairman Eijk emphasized that the police commissioner is selected based on knowledge, competence, experience, character and leadership qualities. He pointed out that he suspects that the decision to replace Isaacs was bound to be made as a new administration is now in office but made it clear that the union does not wish to comment on the issue as long as there is no official reason for the dismissal. Former Police Commissioner Isaacs urged the police union to be on guard for political influence. Eijk deemed the former police commissioner’s warning unnecessary. “We have always operated independently regardless of which administration was in office. During the administrations of Bouterse and
Santokhi and before we also worked hard for our members. And we will keep working hard for them.” Eijk acknowledged that political interference can influence the way the police force operates. “There is always positive or negative political influence. But when that influence damages our interests, we will let our voices be heard,” said Chairman Eijk.